The Daily How the Birth Control Pill Got Over the Counter
16 snips
Jul 19, 2023 
Pam Belluck, a health and science correspondent for The New York Times, unpacks the historic FDA approval for over-the-counter birth control pills. She delves into the long journey of contraception, highlighting its transformative role in women's empowerment and workplace equality. The discussion touches on shifting political dynamics, where even some conservatives now advocate for expanded access amidst restrictive abortion laws. Personal anecdotes from young women underscore the significance of accessible reproductive health in their lives, marking a watershed moment for public health policy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Birth Control Pill Origins
- The birth control pill, developed in the 1950s and FDA-approved in 1960, revolutionized reproductive health.
- It empowered women to control their pregnancies, impacting workforce participation and family size.
Pill's Transformative Impact
- The birth control pill significantly impacted women's lives by increasing control over pregnancy.
- It enabled longer work lives and contributed to greater gender parity in the job market.
Backlash and Opposition
- The pill faced backlash from various groups, including Catholic leaders, some NAACP members, and some Black leaders.
- Concerns arose about potential use for population control due to its historical ties to eugenics and trials in Puerto Rico.